Need help. Suitcase & Daypack for SE Asia?

[Moab]

I'm traveling long term to SE Asia. And I need a carry on hard luggage suitcase. And a day pack.

Any recommendations gladly taken!

Weight, strength and carry on size are my criteria for the carry on suitcase.

For the backpack. I wish I could find a 5.11 RUSH 12 like backpack but in a much lighter weight material. It's the best backpack I've ever owned for organization and functionality. But it's like 1000 or 500(?) weight cordura or something. And weighs 3.5lbs.

If I could find that pack in normal Jansport school bag type material that would be great.

Any suggestions? Maybe just eat the extra 1-2lbs and go with a Rush 12?

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[MacWa77ace]

Not really, what does alibaba have for hard sided carry ons? The only suggestion I could make is make sure you get the biggest best seats budget will allow, and then get some personal isolation equiptment [PIE] to X-Out the other travelers and jet noise and some other comfort stuff.

One of my co-workers went on a cruise out of Japan recently and had to fly thru S Korea to get there. They said the flight was brutal. But that flight added 3500 miles farther than your trip would, Florida to Chicago to S Korea to Japan

FETA: Make sure you bring back a bunch of gas masks for testing/reviewing. Can you visit the Benchmade clone factory and bring back a box of samples too?

[Moab]

Not really, what does alibaba have for hard sided carry ons? The only suggestion I could make is make sure you get the biggest best seats budget will allow, and then get some personal isolation equiptment [PIE] to X-Out the other travelers and jet noise and some other comfort stuff.

One of my co-workers went on a cruise out of Japan recently and had to fly thru S Korea to get there. They said the flight was brutal. But that flight added 3500 miles farther than your trip would, Florida to Chicago to S Korea to Japan

FETA: Make sure you bring back a bunch of gas masks for testing/reviewing. Can you visit the Benchmade clone factory and bring back a box of samples too?

It's like a 16 hour flight. It is long. Good point. 

[Moab]

I think I've decided against a hard suitcase and going with a backpack. Carry on restrictions are 15lbs total for carry on bag. The lightest hard suitcase is more than 5lbs. And most are in the 7.5lb range. Which makes up half of the 15lbs limit. Backpacks are more in the 3lb range. And offer up to about 35L capacity.

I've narrowed it down to these two. The Rush 24 and the AER. The Rush I have owned in the RUSH 12. Which is the same pack just smaller. I also have an LAPG pack that is a knock off of the RUSH 24.

I really love the RUSH organization layout. It's really easy to store and access a laptop, sunglasses/phone, wallet, hidden Velcro compartment behind lower pocket for EDC, and it's bombproof. It is tactical. But in a common color like black or they have a muted sort of ranger green. But in black I'm not sure it screams tactical. Unless you started hanging stuff off the molle. Which I would never need or do.

The AER is just as well organized. But in a more nylon like thin material. But both packs are in the 3.75lb range. Whereas the RUSH is 1000 cordura. The AER has a more urban look to it. And probably, empty, smashes down to a smaller bulk. Both are even in terms of functionality. Except the AER adds a zipper lock. And the zippers are like taped or sealed. But both packs require a cover for rain. As both are only water resistant.

Main uses are travel via plane, bus, and probably driving a scooter or motorbike. Maybe some hiking. Definitely some dirty trips to the beach or other rural locations. But a lot in the city too.

Here's an exhaustive AI comparison. They are both are neck in neck. But the AER is twice as expensive. And I can't decide if the looks or any other aspect is worth that much more.

How tactical do you think the RUSH looks in a solid black or green? Enough that the AER is a better pick? Any other differences that stand out?

Here's couple pics. But I need to post additional in the next post.

The AER:

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The 5.11 RUSH 24:

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An exhaustive AI comparison. Probably way to long to read. But it at least includes the specs of each:

The Philippines' rural areas (e.g., Palawan, Siargao, or Banaue) often feature uneven trails, high humidity, and unpredictable rain, while motorcycle or scooter riding (common for island exploration) requires a secure, compact pack that won't shift at speed. Below, I'll adjust the comparison to account for these activities, focusing on capacity, organization, comfort, durability, aesthetics, and price, with specific considerations for rural hikes and riding.

1. Capacity and Size

RUSH® 24 2.0:

Capacity: 37 liters.

Dimensions: 20" H x 12.5" L x 8" D (main compartment).

Weight: 3.84 lbs (1.74 kg).

Hiking Suitability: The 37L capacity easily holds hiking essentials (e.g., water, snacks, first aid, rain gear, change of clothes) for day hikes in rural areas like the Batad Rice Terraces. It fits a 15" laptop, useful for downtime in urban stops.

Riding Suitability: Sufficient for carrying gear (e.g., helmet, gloves, small tools) but the boxy shape may feel bulky on a motorcycle or scooter, potentially shifting during turns or rough roads.

Carry-On Note: Compliant but may be cumbersome for frequent bus or ferry travel between islands.

Aer Travel Pack 3 Ultra:

Capacity: 35 liters.

Dimensions: 21.5" H x 13" W x 9" D.

Weight: 3.7 lbs (1.68 kg).

Hiking Suitability: The 35L capacity is adequate for day hikes, fitting similar gear as the RUSH 24, with a 16" laptop pocket for urban transitions. The lay-flat design aids packing but is less flexible for oddly shaped hiking gear.

Riding Suitability: Sleeker profile and compression straps make it more stable for riding, hugging the body better at speed on scooters in places like Siargao. The luggage pass-through can secure it to a bike's rear rack if needed.

Carry-On Note: Streamlined for airport and ferry travel, easier to stow in tight spaces.
Comparison: Both packs handle hiking gear, but the RUSH 24's extra 2L and boxy shape accommodate bulkier items (e.g., trekking poles). For riding, the Aer's sleeker design and compression straps offer better stability and less wind resistance, critical for scooters on bumpy roads. 

2. Organization and Features

RUSH® 24 2.0:

Compartments: Laptop sleeve, top pockets, front pocket, hydration pocket, CCW pocket.

Features: MOLLE webbing, eyewear storage, hydration-compatible.

Hiking Suitability: MOLLE webbing is a major advantage, allowing attachment of pouches for water bottles, rain covers, or carabiners for hiking poles during treks in Bohol or Palawan. The hydration pocket supports a bladder for long hikes.

Riding Suitability: MOLLE can secure riding gear (e.g., gloves, small tools), but loose attachments may flap at speed. Multiple compartments organize essentials, though accessing them while riding is less convenient.
Aer Travel Pack 3 Ultra:
Compartments: 16" laptop pocket, lay-flat main compartment, quick-access pockets, water bottle pocket, smart tracker pocket, document flap.

Features: Lockable zippers, compression straps, load lifters, optional hip belt, luggage pass-through.

Hiking Suitability: The water bottle pocket and quick-access pockets are practical for trails, but it lacks MOLLE for attaching extra gear. The lay-flat compartment is less ideal for quick access to hiking items mid-trail.

Riding Suitability: Compression straps and lockable zippers keep contents secure and stable during rides, ideal for scooters in Cebu or Palawan. The smart tracker pocket adds security for valuables in rural areas.
Comparison: The RUSH 24 excels for hiking with MOLLE and hydration compatibility, allowing customized gear attachment for rural trails. The Aer is better for riding, with compression straps and a streamlined design ensuring stability and security at speed.

3. Comfort and Ergonomics

RUSH® 24 2.0:

Comfort: Padded straps and back panel, but limited ventilation. At 3.84 lbs, it feels heavier on long treks.

Hiking Suitability: Handles heavy loads (e.g., water, food) but may cause sweating in humid conditions, less ideal for long hikes in Siargao's heat.

Riding Suitability: Stable for short rides but may shift during aggressive maneuvers due to its boxy shape and lack of compression straps. Less breathable for hot rides.
Aer Travel Pack 3 Ultra:
Comfort: Ergonomic harness with load lifters, contoured straps, framesheet. Lighter at 3.7 lbs.

Hiking Suitability: Load lifters and ergonomic design distribute weight well, reducing fatigue on trails like those in Banaue. Slightly better breathability suits humid conditions.

Riding Suitability: Compression straps and contoured fit keep it snug against the back, minimizing movement during scooter rides on uneven roads. The optional hip belt (sold separately) could enhance stability.
Comparison: The Aer is more comfortable for both hiking and riding due to its lighter weight, load lifters, and snug fit, especially in humid conditions. The RUSH 24 is less breathable and slightly heavier, which may fatigue you on long hikes or rides.
4. Durability and Weather Resistance
RUSH® 24 2.0:
Materials: High-strength nylon (likely 1000D).

Weather Resistance: Water-resistant, not waterproof. Needs a rain cover for monsoons.

Hiking Suitability: Rugged for muddy trails or rocky paths in rural Philippines, with MOLLE for attaching waterproof pouches.

Riding Suitability: Durable for gear strapped to a bike but exposed MOLLE attachments may catch debris or rain. A rain cover is critical for wet rides.

Aer Travel Pack 3 Ultra:

Materials: Ultra400X fabric, YKK® zippers, Duraflex® hardware.

Weather Resistance: Water-resistant with lockable zippers, not waterproof. Needs a rain cover.

Hiking Suitability: Durable for light trails but less rugged for extreme conditions (e.g., dense jungle treks). Water-resistant fabric holds up in light rain.

Riding Suitability: Sleek design reduces debris snags, and lockable zippers protect contents during wet rides. Still needs a rain cover for heavy downpours.
Comparison: The RUSH 24 is tougher for rugged hikes, withstanding abrasion on rocky trails. The Aer is durable for lighter outdoor use and riding, with a sleeker profile that's less prone to catching debris but not as robust in extreme conditions.
5. Aesthetics and Travel Context
RUSH® 24 2.0:
Look: Tactical, military-style (black, Multicam, etc.).

Travel Context: Functional for rural hikes but may attract attention in urban areas or during rides in tourist-heavy spots like Boracay, potentially signaling valuable contents.
Aer Travel Pack 3 Ultra:
Look: Sleek, minimalist, black-on-black.

Travel Context: Less conspicuous for rural and urban settings, blending in during rides or hikes. Ideal for avoiding attention in crowded or remote areas.
Comparison: The Aer's low-profile design is better for discretion during rides and hikes, reducing theft risk. The RUSH 24's tactical look suits adventure-focused trips but may stand out.
6. Price and Value
RUSH® 24 2.0:
Price: ~$130–$150 USD.

Value: High value for rugged, versatile use in hiking and mixed travel.
Aer Travel Pack 3 Ultra:
Price: $299 USD.

Value: Premium for ergonomic, travel-optimized features, best for urban and riding comfort.
Comparison: The RUSH 24 is more budget-friendly and versatile for rugged activities. The Aer's higher price reflects its comfort and riding-specific features.
Recommendations with Rural Hikes and Motorcycle/Scooter Riding
Choose the RUSH® 24 2.0 if:
Your trip focuses on rural hikes in places like Palawan, Bohol, or Banaue, where MOLLE webbing and rugged durability are critical for attaching gear (e.g., trekking poles, water bottles) and withstanding rough trails.

You're okay with a slightly heavier pack (3.84 lbs) and tactical aesthetic for mixed urban-rural travel.

You're budget-conscious and need a versatile pack for hiking, light riding, and general travel.

Tips: Use MOLLE to attach a rain cover and hydration bladder for hikes. For riding, pack light to reduce bulk and secure loose straps to avoid flapping.
Choose the Aer Travel Pack 3 Ultra if:
You prioritize motorcycle or scooter riding in places like Siargao or Cebu, where the sleeker profile, compression straps, and ergonomic fit ensure stability and comfort at speed.

You want a comfortable pack for shorter hikes and urban travel, with features like lockable zippers and a lay-flat design for airport efficiency.

You prefer a discreet, stylish look that blends in across rural and urban settings.

Tips: Add a rain cover for wet season hikes and rides. Use compression straps to keep the pack snug during rides, and consider the optional hip belt for hiking stability.
Final Recommendation
With rural hikes and motorcycle/scooter riding added, the 5.11 Tactical RUSH® 24 2.0 Backpack is the better choice for its rugged durability, MOLLE webbing, and versatility, making it ideal for demanding hikes in rural Philippines (e.g., Batad or Mt. Pulag) and functional for light riding. Its ability to attach hiking gear and withstand rough conditions outweighs its slightly heavier weight and less stable fit for riding. However, if riding is your primary activity and hikes are lighter (e.g., short trails in Siargao), or you value comfort and urban transitions, the Aer Trave
l Pack 3 Ultra is superior for its ergonomic design, stability at speed, and sleek profile, though it's less rugged and pricier.

[Moab]

The AER:


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[Moab]

The 5.11 RUSH 24:

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[Moab]

I do like that zippered water bottle holder on the AER. It zips flat when not used. But doesn't look secure enough for motorcycle riding. One could be added to the RUSH using molle. 

I like the looks of the AER for in the city better. But the RUSH is much more rugged. I feel like the RUSH would last longer. And eventually once I moved there. It would get way more use on a scooter or motorcycle in a more rural area than in the city. 

I prefer the backpack for general use. It's lighter. I can't fit what I need I to the 7.5lbs left in a suitcase. And even with the 12lbs in the pack it's gonna be a stretch. I may have to check it anyway.

I have not looked for a cheaper price on the AER. But price is a concern. Especially thinking the cheaper one would last longer.

I like the locks on the AER. Definitely a plus for travel and pickpockets in the city.